Ezcaray

A mountain village at the foot of the Sierra de la Demanda, known for its traditional textile industry and Michelin-starred restaurant. Its colorful houses and beech forests make it La Rioja's best-kept mountain secret.

Most La Rioja visitors never leave the wine valleys, missing the stunning mountain scenery and gastronomic excellence of Ezcaray.

History

Ezcaray, nestled in the scenic Oja Valley at the foot of the Sierra de la Demanda, has a rich history rooted in its natural resources and industrial prowess. Originally a medieval settlement, its strategic location near mountain passes and forests led to early economic development. It gained prominence in the 18th century when the Royal Cloth Factory of Ezcaray (Real Fábrica de Paños) was established under King Charles III, transforming it into a significant textile production center. This royal patronage brought considerable prosperity and a distinctive architectural style, with many grand houses built by factory owners and merchants.

While the textile industry declined in the 19th century, Ezcaray has successfully reinvented itself as a charming tourist destination, blending its industrial heritage with natural beauty. Its well-preserved old town, characterized by arcaded plazas and stone houses, reflects its prosperous past. Ezcaray also stands out for its gastronomy and as a gateway to mountain sports, maintaining a vibrant link to its historical craftsmanship through traditional woodworking and blanket production.

Highlights

• Traditional textile industry (mantillas and blankets)
• Michelin-starred El Portal restaurant
• Valdezcaray ski station
• Beech and oak forests of the Sierra de la Demanda

How to get there

From Logroño, take the N-120 east to Santo Domingo de la Calzada, then the LR-111 south directly to Ezcaray, about a 50-minute drive covering 58 km.

Explore nearby: La Rioja guide